| Foresty Commission programme manager: |
Helen McKay |
| Research contact and location: | Andy Moffat and Alan Harrison Environment and Human Sciences Division and Forest Management Division Forest Research |
Since the Ice Age the soils in the UK have gradually evolved into a resource that functions as an integral link in the cycling of nutrients in forest ecosystems; a resource which is thus valuable and irreplaceable. The principal aims of this programme are firstly to identify and evaluate the potential impacts of forest management on soil status and dynamics (both physical and chemical), and secondly to develop and advise upon sustainable practices. Research, past and present, has particularly focused on harvesting, but pesticide usage, planting strategy and brash management are examples of topics which also fall under the programme's remit.
Air pollution is a global issue that threatens the soil resource and yet is beyond the control of the forest manager. This programme therefore has strong links with the Environmental monitoring and evaluation of forest ecosystems programme. We are actively involved in the development of methods for estimating soil sensitivity to enhanced nitrogen and sulphur deposition.
The programme has a significant advisory function for the Forestry Commission and forestry industry and has recently provided input to the Wales Soil Strategy. It will generate a number of web pages. Information notes are planned on the importance and management of brash and the use of sewage sludge and composts. Other publications on soil quality indicators and the environmental effects of wood ash will also be produced. Internet pages provide an easily accessible and more detailed description of the programme and recent outputs.
Commissioned reports
No reports available at this time
